Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has committed to expediting the Property Rights of Spouses Bill to ensure fairness and accountability in the division of marital property.

He made this pledge after receiving a petition from the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Ghana. Mr Bagbin voiced Parliament’s profound concern over the hardships endured by women and children following the dissolution of marriages.

He noted that MPs frequently encounter vulnerable constituents in their constituencies who struggle with basic survival, housing, and child welfare owing to ambiguous laws on spousal property rights.

The Speaker reaffirmed Parliament’s determination to enact the Bill without delay, even through a certificate of urgency if necessary.

“But we ourselves are very concerned about it. I’m not surprised that you are here today because of some recent rulings of some courts. We experience what you just recounted on a daily basis.

“The problem is not Parliament. Parliament is more than willing, ready today, even to pass this bill under a certificate of urgency,” he stated.

Mr Bagbin cautioned, however, that legislation alone is insufficient.

He stressed the importance of robust implementation and enforcement to protect families effectively.

He positioned the advocacy for the Bill as a broader societal imperative, affecting everyone rather than solely women and children.

“You can pass a bill, it becomes law, and if they’re not implementing it, we’re back to square one.

“What you’re doing today, your presence here, is not a fight for women or children. It’s a fight for all of us, including the men, who cannot survive without you,” he said.